IAANMP: Association news

IAANMP Annual Conference 2026

Date: Friday, 6 November 2026, Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise

Theme: Advanced practice in Ireland – transforming care, measuring impact, expanding access, and shaping the future

On Friday, 6 November 2026, advanced nurse practitioners (ANPs), advanced midwife practitioners (AMPs), healthcare leaders, policymakers, academics, and clinical innovators from across Ireland will gather at the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise, for the Irish Association of Advanced Nurse and Midwife Practitioners (IAANMP) Annual Conference 2026.

Under the theme ‘Advanced practice in Ireland: Transforming care, measuring impact, expanding access, and shaping the future’, this year’s conference reflects the growing influence of advanced practice in shaping modern healthcare delivery. As healthcare systems continue to face increasing demands associated with population growth, chronic disease, workforce challenges, and rising service expectations, advanced practitioners continue to demonstrate their value through clinical leadership, innovation, research, and the delivery of high-quality, patient-centred care.

The conference programme has been designed to explore the evolving role of advanced practice, while highlighting the significant contribution ANPs and AMPs make to healthcare delivery across Ireland. Bringing together nationally recognised experts and leaders from across healthcare, the event will provide delegates with opportunities to share knowledge, celebrate achievement, and engage in discussions on the future direction of advanced nursing and midwifery practice.

The conference will be formally opened by Melissa Hammond, Chair of the IAANMP and RANP, whose welcome address will reflect on the continued growth of advanced practice and the Association’s commitment to supporting excellence in clinical practice, education, research, and leadership. The opening address will be delivered by Dr Colm Henry, Chief Clinical Officer of the HSE.

As one of Ireland’s senior clinical leaders, Dr Henry has played a pivotal role in shaping national healthcare strategy, clinical governance, and service transformation. His address will provide delegates with an important overview of current healthcare priorities and the contribution of advanced practice to delivering safe, effective, and integrated patient care across Ireland.

The morning programme will feature keynote presentations exploring education, innovation, and the development of advanced practice capability. Dr Jarlath Varley, RANP and Programme Director of the MSc in Advanced Practice at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, will present ‘Impact by design: Building ANMP capability through advanced practice education’. His talk will examine how advanced education supports clinical excellence, leadership, and the continued development of the advanced practitioner workforce.

Delegates will also hear from Clare Crowley, Nursing and Midwifery Fellow with the National Simulation Office, who will present on the role of simulation in advanced practice and quality improvement. As healthcare systems become increasingly complex, simulation-based education is playing an important role in strengthening clinical decision-making, enhancing patient safety, and supporting multidisciplinary team performance.

Digital transformation remains a key priority across Irish healthcare. Prof Richard Greene and Loretto Grogan from HSE Technology and Transformation will provide delegates with an update on the National Electronic Health Record Programme. Their session will explore how digital innovation is transforming clinical practice, improving information sharing, and supporting more integrated, efficient, and patient-centred models of care.

Protecting and advancing the profession is another important theme within this year’s programme. Phil Ní Sheaghdha, General Secretary of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO), will examine the importance of professional autonomy and scope of practice, highlighting the policy, workforce and professional issues influencing the continued development of advanced practice roles in Ireland.

Supporting professional development, academic achievement, and the recognition of excellence remains central to the mission of the IAANMP. The conference will feature presentations from the recipients of the IAANMP Bernie Carpenter and Trisha McKeown Bursaries, recognising innovative work that advances research, education, and clinical practice. These prestigious bursaries reflect the Association’s continued commitment to fostering scholarship, supporting emerging leaders, and strengthening the evidence base underpinning advanced nursing and midwifery practice.

Delegates will also hear from Carolyn Donohoe, Chief Executive Officer of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI), who will provide an important update on professional regulation and developments within nursing and midwifery. Her address will highlight the NMBI’s ongoing role in supporting safe, effective, and contemporary professional practice.

Measuring and demonstrating the impact of advanced practice continues to be a national priority. Patricia Minnock, RANP, will deliver a keynote presentation entitled ‘Capturing impact in advanced practice’, exploring the importance of evidencing clinical outcomes, service improvements, and patient benefits arising from advanced practice roles. Demonstrating measurable impact is essential in supporting workforce planning, service expansion, and the continued evolution of advanced practice across Ireland.

A highlight of the afternoon programme will be a multidisciplinary panel discussion chaired by Priscilla Lynch, award-winning journalist and clinical editor of the Medical Independent. The panel, entitled ‘Advanced nurse and midwife practitioners’ impact in Ireland: Unlocking opportunities, demonstrating benefits and overcoming challenge’, will bring together senior representatives from the Department of Health, the Office of the Nursing and Midwifery Services Director, the NMBI, HSE Technology and Transformation, practising ANPs, and the INMO.

The discussion will explore how advanced practitioners are improving access to healthcare, delivering measurable patient outcomes, and contributing to service transformation across Ireland. Panel members will consider the opportunities and challenges associated with workforce expansion, digital innovation, professional regulation, leadership, and the future strategic development of advanced practice.

The conference features a motivational address from Dr Brian Pennie, internationally recognised neuroscientist, author, lecturer, and entrepreneur. His presentation, ‘There is no magic wand, only powerful tools we forget to use!’, will explore the science of resilience, mindset, and sustainable personal change. Drawing on both his lived experience and extensive academic expertise, Dr Pennie has become a leading advocate for psychological resilience, adaptability, and high performance in challenging environments.

His remarkable personal journey, from heroin addiction to earning a doctorate in neuroscience and psychology, has inspired audiences worldwide and underpins his unique approach to personal and professional development. As a lecturer at Trinity College Dublin, award-winning television presenter, bestselling author, and founder of Change is Possible, Dr Pennie works with individuals and organisations to foster meaningful and sustainable change. His keynote address is expected to provide delegates with valuable insights into leadership, innovation, wellbeing, and the importance of embracing change within increasingly complex healthcare environments. Through a compelling blend of science, storytelling, and practical strategies, he will challenge attendees to rethink limitations, build resilience, and unlock their full potential.

Throughout the day, delegates will have the opportunity to view poster presentations showcasing research, quality improvement initiatives, and examples of innovation from advanced practitioners across Ireland. These presentations continue to promote collaboration, evidence-based practice and the dissemination of new knowledge throughout the profession. The conference will conclude with the IAANMP Annual General Meeting, followed by networking opportunities during the closing reception. These sessions provide members with an opportunity to engage with colleagues, discuss future priorities for the profession, and strengthen professional networks across the advanced practice community.

As advanced practice continues to expand throughout Ireland, the IAANMP Annual Conference remains an important national platform for professional engagement, education, and collaboration. The conference reflects the continued progress of advanced nursing and midwifery practice and the growing influence of ANPs and AMPs in shaping healthcare delivery, policy development, and patient outcomes. The IAANMP looks forward to welcoming delegates from across Ireland for a day of innovation, knowledge exchange, professional networking, and celebration of excellence in advanced nursing and midwifery practice.

Call for poster presentation abstracts

The Irish Association of Advanced Nurse and Midwife Practitioners (IAANMP) is delighted to announce a call for poster presentation abstracts for its upcoming Annual Conference 2026. This year’s conference offers a fantastic opportunity to showcase excellence, innovation, and leadership in advanced nursing and midwifery practice across Ireland. We invite abstract submissions for poster presentations from all members and healthcare professionals working in or alongside advanced practice roles.

Whether you are engaged in innovative clinical practice, research projects, quality improvement initiatives, audit, or service developments, we encourage you to share your work. Your contribution will help inspire and inform others, while also providing a platform to disseminate findings, receive feedback, and connect with peers from across the country.

ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DETAILS
✽ Deadline: Wednesday 30 September, 2026
✽ Word count: Maximum 300 words
✽ Structure:
• Title
• Background
• Aims/objectives
• Methods/approach
• Results/outcomes
• Discussion
• Conclusion/implications for Practice.
✽ Authors: (Include full name(s), job title(s) and place of work)
✽ Eligibility: Open to all professionals involved in or supporting advanced practice in nursing or midwifery
✽ Submission format: PDF document
✽ Use the submission form on the IAANMP website to submit your poster abstract: www.iaanmp.com/submit-your-posters-here-for-2026-conference
✽ Notification of acceptance: By 30 September, 2026.

Once your poster has been accepted, you will be asked to submit a digital version of the poster by 26 October, 2026.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. For any queries, please contact: iaanmp@gmail.com. We look forward to receiving your submissions and to celebrating the outstanding work being carried out by ANPs, AMPs, and their colleagues across the country.